Couple of Katanas – 1982 Suzuki Katana x2

In Japan, Sport by Abhi2 Comments

The Suzuki Katana is a very distinctive bike designed by Hans Muth (the fairing might remind you of a similar Muth creation – the BMW R65LS). In the late 70s and early 80s, Japanese manufacturers were selling standard bikes as fast as they could make them.  And while most of the bikes were technically sound, they all started to emulate each other, creating the UJM, as coined by Cycle magazine.  Some considered it efficient, others considered it boring – which is why bikes like the original Suzuki Katana are very important in the history of motorcycles. Bonus points for having such a great name!

Suzuki Katana - Cockpit

The first Katana (VIN: JS1GT72A6CX100840) has 19,260 miles and is claimed to be highly original. It’s been stored for 5 years though the owner has recently started it up – still, budget for a major service to bring this bike back to daily rider condition. The seller notes that the bike has a Yoshimura 4-into-1 exhaust and I see some aftermarket SS brake lines. Find it for sale in Plumsteadville, Pennsyvlania with bidding up to $4,550 and the reserve not yet met

The second Katana (VIN: JS1GT72A6C2100529) has 27,007 miles and has a few issues – scratches on the fuel tank, tip of the odometer needle is broken, and a small leak from the cam chain tensioner. However, it has a new seat, fenders, mirros, fairings, tool kit, and sprockets, along with an aftermarket exhaust that I can’t identify. Find it for sale in Richland, Washington with bidding up to $3,150 and the reserve not yet met